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CMPD calls fentanyl epidemic 'a public health crisis' amidst spike in overdose deaths

Overdose deaths increased by 19% from 2022 to 2023.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — New data show that more people are dying from fentanyl overdoses across Charlotte. 

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department says they've seen a spike in overdose deaths, and overdose calls for service are also on the rise. 

CMPD Lt. Kevin Pietrus said the fentanyl crisis has hit Charlotte hard. Officials want the public to know that street drugs are often laced with fentanyl, leading to dozens of deaths this year.  

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Fentanyl is a powerful painkiller and its impacts are devastating. It can kill people who don't even know they're taking it. 

“You might think you’re taking an oxycodone pill, think again," said Lt. Pietrus. "You might think you’re taking an Adderall pill, think again."

According to CMPD, so far in 2023, 162 people have died from overdose. This is a 19% increase from 2022. 

Overdose calls for service are also up by 4%, compared to last year. 

“The fentanyl epidemic is a public health crisis," Pietrus said. 

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Every life lost is a tragedy and officials say the community is losing the fight against it. As CMPD works to get drugs off the street, they're also gearing up to launch a new campaign. The goal is to bring public awareness and education around the crisis. 

CMPD urges families to be vigilant, as well as open and honest about drug use because fentanyl can be lurking in seemingly harmless pills. 

“Unless you get it directly from a pharmacy, don’t take the risk. It’s not just that it could kill you, it very well might kill you," Pietrus said. 

A lethal dose of fentanyl is just two milligrams, small enough to fit on the tip of a pencil. That's why officials are also encouraging the correct disposal of drugs.

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“This is not something you can just throw in the trash, dispose in the garbage, because anyone who comes in contact with it could be at risk of exposure," Pietrus said. 

CMPD has a drop-off container for medication at the main entrance of police headquarters, located at 601 E. Trade Street. 

Currently, several groups are working with the Mecklenburg County Health Department to help distribute Narcan to everyone who needs access to it.

Contact Lexi Wilson at lwilson@wcnc.com and follow her on FacebookX and Instagram.

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